In the heyday of the late 1940s to the late 1950s, a unique piece of heating history emerged in the form of tall cylindrical Panelray heaters. Manufactured by the Day & Night Corporation and licensed by Marsh Corp, these heaters found cozy homes in various trailer types. As a vintage camper enthusiast with a knack for restoration, this contributor revived five nostalgic units over the years. Here is what he has to share…
Cautionary Note on Operation:
Before delving into the intricate restoration details, a word of caution is in order. The Panelray heaters, like many of their time, utilize interior air for combustion. Much like operating a stove or oven, ensuring proper ventilation is crucial. Opening a window while using these heaters is imperative to avoid potential hazards. It’s a charming reminder of a bygone era when heating solutions were not as streamlined as today’s models.
Restoration Chronicles:
The restoration process was a labor of love, involving a meticulous disassembly of each unit. The paint was stripped, and sandblasting was employed where necessary. The revived heaters were then adorned with the correct bluish-gray hammertone finish, readily available in spray cans from Rustoleum.
The heart of these heaters lies in the LPG control valve, pilot assembly, and burner. Disassembling and cleaning these components revealed the beauty hidden beneath rust and old LPG residue layers. A crucial point of caution during this process is handling the internal diaphragms with care, as they are irreplaceable. O-rings, if needed, can be conveniently sourced from hardware stores.
To ensure optimal performance, the burner flue and baffle underwent thorough cleaning, removing any rust or obstructions. Testing the burner/valve assembly on a workbench using a BBQ propane tank and regulator was a prudent step before reinstalling it into the heater. Thermocouples, essential for these vintage units, can be found at appliance parts stores and easily tested for functionality.
One intriguing aspect of my restoration journey was discovering that each of the five units featured a different manufacturer or control valve model: General, Robertshaw & Unitrol. Adaptable parts such as knobs, tubing, and pilot assemblies were sourced from appliance part stores, with controls from older water heaters proving to be the closest match in function and construction.
Functional Brilliance and Compatibility:
The top vent cap of these vintage wonders seamlessly interfaces with standard household 3” gas water heater ducting, fittings, and caps—readily available at home centers and hardware stores. With a gas connection using a standard LPG 5/8” flare nut fitting and a rating of 16,500 BTUs, these heaters are the ideal size for trailers. When used with the respect any gas appliance deserves, their safety makes them a charming addition to any vintage camper.
In conclusion, these Panelray heaters not only warm the interiors of vintage trailers but also evoke a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time. While requiring technical skills and attention to detail, the restoration journey is rewarding for enthusiasts seeking to preserve the charm of a bygone era. So, open a window, let the gentle hum of the Panelray transport you back in time, and relish the warmth it brings to your vintage camper experience.
Whether you’ve mastered vintage trailer revival or discovered ingenious tricks, Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine invites you to share your expertise. Be a guiding light for the community and contribute your restoration tips. Your insights could be the missing piece someone needs for their restoration journey. Submit your ideas and become a part of the camaraderie of vintage camper enthusiasts!
